HEATED STORAGE UNITS AND COLD STORAGE UNITS

Depending on your region of where you live, one thing you must consider when storing your valuables is what kind of temperature or weather will there be while you are storing, how long you will need your storage space for, whether climate controlled storage is the best option for you.

Climate controlled storage facilities can protect artwork, documents, wood, leather, electronics, fabrics, and other personal and business possessions. If you live in an area where humidity is high, too much moisture can cause mold, pathogens, bacteria, & rotting if the storage space is poorly ventilated or storage temperatures are unregulated. Just because your storage unit facility claims they have temperature controlled units does not mean your valuable items like artwork, wine, and antiques will be protected, you should know the variables the unit goes through and what temperatures and humidity levels your goods are stored at. When renting a climate controlled storage space, there is usually an increased fee for these units as this is an additional expense your storage facility has to maintain.

Climate controlled facilities are usually in a finished building with indirect cooling and heating protection, and usually offer greater levels of protection against flood, dirt, and dust, than your average storage facility. Temperature levels usually do not fall below freezing or rise above 90 degrees F.

If you live in extremely hot temperatures, or have items that need to be kept in cool temperatures, refrigerated cold storage units may be the best option for you. Temperatures are usually kept between 50-80°F, with the average humidity about 50%. These units are generally used to protect artifacts, paintings, food storage, and other cold storage items. Some cold storage facilities are sometimes underground to keep better control of the climate and also assist with prevention of moisture and dew to your items. Most cold storage units will offer additional security to prevent access to your storage space. Underground cold storage can also protect from man-made or natural disasters and can also offer more protection from storms, fires, floods. The security levels systems are usually maintained with video surveillance, security systems, fire alarms, and metal doors. Another type of cold storage unit is a portable storage unit, which is used to provide good cooling systems with effective insulation. Some portable storage units can be built to suit a custom size room, can be kept indoors or outdoors, or may be at an off site storage site. Whether its food, or other items that need to be kept in the portable cold storage units, they are designed for needs which can range from -15°-75°F. Security levels may vary for these types of storage units depending on where you have them, and if on personal property what type of security you have onsite. Other items that should be considered for cold storage would be wine, you can reach storing wine to get more tips.

In cases of severe freezing temperatures, or extreme cold, you may want to consider a heated storage facility. This can help insure your items will not get damp, or collect mold/mildew. When humidity is too high liquid droplets can form in your storage items, and cause them to get warped or get filled with mildew. You also want to make sure your furniture items stay dry. Some heated storage facilities will offer indirect heat instead of heating units in each unit, and may include using radiant floors or radiant heat which can be useful for storing antique furniture and other valuables. Heated storage facilities generally maintain a consistent temperature so your items do not go below 50-55°F. This can be useful for storing books, records, electronics, leather, wood, music, clothing, pharmaceuticals, vehicles, boats, motorcycles, and other valuable items. When looking for climate controlled storage, know what your belongings need to maintain their value and condition, if unsure, you can always check with an expert to see how an individual piece would best be stored.